Unlike other specialties that are limited to a particular organ or disease, family physicians are the only specialists qualified to treat most ailments and provide comprehensive health care for people of all ages — from newborns to seniors. This looks like:

• Caring for patients regardless of age or health condition, sustaining an enduring and trusting relationship
• Understanding community-level factors and social determinants of health
• Serving as a patient’s first contact for health concerns
• Navigating the health care system with patients, including specialist and hospital care coordination and follow-up
• Using data and technology to coordinate services and enhance care
• Considering the impact of health on a patient’s family